Stalking the Southern Twayblade

Listera australis(Southern Twayblade) is a less common orchid native in Virginia only in the coastal plain. Hard to find, even when you know where it is, we will hope to catch it during its short, chilly bloom season. There aren’t many things blooming this time of year, but it’s still a good time for a walk in the woods and we’ll see what else we can find. We can also scout Ladys-Slipper colonies that will bloom a couple weeks later. The trail is a 2.6 mile loop, but if weather is unpleasant we can double back for a slightly shorter walk. The trail is fairly level and easy. Meet at Newport News Park’s Discovery Center, Constitution Way. Use the NNPark entrance at Constitution Way. From Jefferson Ave, turn onto Constitution Way; drive 0.9 mile; the Discovery Center will be on the right (approximate GPS coordinates 37.181682, -76.537173). Email Susie Yager atsoozigus@cox.netto register.